A profile of male domestic violence victims presenting to an emergency department in Singapore

Abstract

Introduction: This is the first study in Singapore to obtain a profile of the male victims of domestic violence. Methods: The study was conducted in the Emergency Department (ED), Tan Tock Seng Hospital (an urban teaching hospital in Singapore). A structured questionnaire was administered to patients who volunteered or who admitted on questioning by ED staff that an intimate partner had assaulted them. Information was gathered about the demographics, characteristics of the assaults and knowledge of social and legal services. Results: Fourteen victims were identified. The youngest was 29 and the oldest 63 years of age. Assailants were spouses or ex-spouses. Weapons were used in half of the assaults but injuries were superficial. The majority of the victims revealed that they had been abused previously, although most knew about helplines, family court and personal protection orders. Conclusion: We hope that this study will raise awareness amongst healthcare workers of the existence of this problem.